Surprising figures approached to join Ofer Winter's new party

Ofer Winter, whose name has often been linked as an option for a reserved spot in the Religious Zionism party, continues to examine an independent run in the upcoming elections. This evening, we reported that Winter has already begun reaching out to several figures with the goal of building his party's list.

Among the names is Lali Deri, a bereaved mother whose son, Staff Sergeant (res.) Saadia Yaakov Deri, fell during the fighting in the Gaza Strip. Also mentioned is Menachem Kalmanzon, an Israel Prize laureate, who, upon the outbreak of the October 7 massacre, joined his brother Elhanan to assist residents of the Gaza envelope. During the rescue, his brother Elhanan was killed by terrorist fire.

We do not claim that these figures have confirmed their participation. According to sources, they are examining other options, and Kalmanzon has apparently decided not to enter politics at this stage. However, these names may indicate the nature of the party Winter seeks to establish—a movement with "new blood," consisting of players from outside the political establishment and individuals with an over-sectoral character. We note that Winter denies the report, but according to our sources, the approaches were indeed made.